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At the age of 50, I semi-retired from traditional employment and transitioned to being a full-time artist. I have the pleasure of spending every day in Birdsong Studio doing what I love. This blog was started almost a decade ago as a public accountability mechanism for a weight loss intention. It has grown into a number of different directions over the years. I hope you enjoy it.

In other words, I don't overthink any project. Instead, I go in with an open heart and intention to honour the subject by taking the portrait where it needs to go. I don't overthink it, or absorb myself with the story.

About six months ago, Nancy had asked me to paint Carmen, her daughter who had passed away some 25 years ago. I worked on it for the better part of a week and with Nancy's guidance on some final details posted the finished portrait on my page late yesterday afternoon. Even though she passed away almost a quarter century ago, she is widely remembered and deeply loved. These are just a few of the comments:

"...a passionate advocate for organ donation..."

"...a dear friend and missed very much..."

"...she was put on this earth for a purpose and she fulfilled it..."

"...a beautiful person..."

I was inspired to find out more, now that the painting is done. If you're from Cape Breton, you probably know Carmen Young's story. If you're not, then click here to read a story from the Cape Breton Star that captures her story and legacy. She was truly a remarkable person, wise and brave beyond her years.